K.H.G. Kithsiri vs Hon. Faizer Musthapha MP et al. – SC FR APPLICATION NO. 362/2017-2017

The case between K.H.G. Kithsiri (Petitioner) and Hon. Faizer Musthapha MP, Hon. Karu Jayasuriya, Jayantha C. Jayasuriya P.C., and others (Respondents) addressed the issue of whether amendments to the Local Authorities Elections (Amendment) Bill and associated constitutional procedures violated the petitioner’s fundamental rights. It was held that the application was not maintainable as it was filed outside the one‐month period prescribed by Article 126(2) of the Constitution. The principle reaffirmed is that the time limit set by Article 126(2) is mandatory and exceptions are permitted only in truly exceptional circumstances, supported by relevant authorities including Demuni Sriyani de Soyza and Gamaethige vs. Siriwardena. The decision underscored that mere reference to section 13(1) of